As a young Saginaw native, I have lived here long enough to know of the many problems that ail this city, but not long enough to know exactly how to fix them. Someone who has made it her business to remedy Saginaw’s ailments is the former Representative of the 95th District of Michigan and current Democratic nominee for Saginaw County Clerk, Vanessa Guerra.
Recently, I had the opportunity to ask Ms. Guerra several questions concerning her goal of securing the role of Saginaw County Clerk in this year’s November election. From her thoughtful responses, I have learned that she is was a young and dynamic political leader with a deep devotion to the people of Saginaw County. As you read through the responses below, we hope that you reach your own conclusions on her character and qualifications. If you feel so inclined, please visit vanessaguerra.com to explore opportunities to contribute to her campaign.
What is the biggest determining factor in your decision to run for Saginaw County Clerk?
I have been interested in the role the clerk plays in our county for several years, but I was committed to completing my time in the statehouse before running for clerk. I saw in the clerk’s role an opportunity to engage citizens in the political process in a way that is purely educational, rather than through a partisan lens. I am a proud Democrat, but above all else, I want citizens of all backgrounds to be involved in their government because I truly believe we get better services when more voices are at the table. At the end of the day, that happens by engaging citizens to become active voters. That’s exactly why I chose to run for the office of clerk, as the clerk serves as the Chief Elections Officer in Saginaw County.
What will be your key priorities as Saginaw County Clerk if you are elected?
Increasing voter education is of the utmost importance. This means ensuring people know who and what is on their ballot during election years, as well as HOW to vote when the time comes. With the passage of proposal three in 2018, our state gained several new tools to make voting easier for all citizens. I believe the clerk can and should take an active role in doing that educational outreach. Our local clerks have their hands full administering our elections and I believe the county clerk can really help fill the need for continual voter education within our communities.
Could you talk about what it was like growing up as a Hispanic American in Saginaw County and going to Bridgeport High School?
I loved growing up in Bridgeport and attending Bridgeport Schools. The school system was diverse, and I always felt supported by the educators and staff. Being Mexican American, I’m naturally around many people of color and never really thought twice about how important the role of diversity is in my life. Upon graduating, I went to the University of Michigan and quickly learned that not all places are as diverse and welcoming as my school district was. It taught me to be understanding and empathetic, values that I wish were instilled in all students throughout our state.
After completing your studies at the University of Michigan, what made you want to come back and work in Saginaw County? What advice would you give to young people who are considering starting their careers elsewhere?
Growing up my parents raised me to be very proud of who I am and where I come from and to not complain about something unless I had a solution to go along with it. Because of this, I’ve always been someone who wants to make my home better, not just for myself but for all community members. It’s easy to see the negative parts of growing up in Saginaw County, but unless you’re going to do something to fix it, why put that negativity out there into the world? Life is too short to be focused on the negative and I hope that other young people see the need to give back to their hometowns and to make them better communities for themselves and for the next generation.
Finally, what is one thing you want people to think of when they hear the name Vanessa Guerra? Also, in what ways can people support your run for this position?
I hope that people see me as someone who is reliable and accessible. My time in public office has not been perfect and I don’t always know the answers to every question, but I try my best to show up and help out when I can, and not just for the photo op. For those that feel I have represented them well in the statehouse and wish to see me succeed as County Clerk, I’d simply ask you to share that sentiment with your friends and family.
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